Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Generative AI is an emerging technology that has transformed the academic landscape in positive and negative ways. The University of Minnesota community is continuously exploring emerging patterns, technologies, and policies to improve the teaching and learning of our student community.
Requests for workshops and consultations on Generative AI can be sent to [email protected]
General rules for AI Use
UMD created a Generative AI Tools policy for course work, effective Fall 2024. The policy, which was drafted by faculty, staff, and students, completed the campus policy review process during spring 2024. The default position of the University is:
Student use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) as part of course work requires written instructor permission. Without instructor permission, the default will be to treat student use of generative AI for assigned course work as scholastic dishonesty
All Faculty should add specific language to their courses that indicates if and when AI use is appropriate for assignments. The UMN Office of the Provost offers some suggested language for syllabus. Faculty may also use language approved by their departments, or colleges.
Individuals interested in Generative Ai should explore:
The University Of Minnesota does not subscribe to an AI Detection Tool. Research has shown that vendor claims about accuracy are limited, and too many false positives are generated by such tools. Faculty with concerns about academic integrity on written assignments should follow the steps provided by the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution.
As January 2024, The University of Minnesota supports two Generative AI Tools for students, staff, and faculty to use:
There is no prohibition against exploring other generative ai products, but these products are not supported by ITSS and OIT. Users of these tools should be mindful of UMN data security policy.
Join the AI Community of Practice
ITSS Academic Technology sponsors and supports the UMN AI Community of Practice Google Group (AI-COP). This is a UMN System Wide group and is open to anyone who is curious about the intersection between AI and ethics, academics, business, labor, technology, learning, and everything else in-between.
Spring 2024 AI-COP Events
- February 3: AI Snake Oil Book Club
- February 12 at 10 am - AI Community of Practice Share Time featuring "Student Focus Group: Things to know about when and why students use AI" via Zoom
- March 12 at 10:00 am - AI Community of Practice Share Time via Zoom
- April 16 at 10:00 am - AI Community of Practice Share Time via Zoom featuring Dan Emery of Writing Across Curriculum
Additional AI Resources
- Teaching and Learning: Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools - UMD EVCAA
- Appropriate Use of Generative AI Tools - UMN Policy Document
- Teaching and GenAI Resources - College of Education and Human Development, UMN
- Teaching with AI Guide - Liberal Arts Technology and Innovations Services, UMN
- Generative AI / ChatGPT Resources - Center for Educational Innovation, UMN
- AI and ChatGPT in Teaching Context and Strategies - Academic Technology Support Services, UMN
- Syllabus Language for "Use of AI in your classes" - Provost's Office, UMN
- Teaching and Learning: Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools - Office of Academic Affairs, UMD
- A Guide to AI Enhanced Learning - Auburn University
- Enhance Teaching & Learning with Microsoft CoPilot: 1 hour Training Session